Salvation at First a Class Privilege; and the Re
The book Salvation at First a Class Privilege; and the Remedy by George Bernard Shaw discusses the idea that salvation was initially only available to those of higher social classes. The author argues that this system needs to be changed in order for everyone to have equal access to salvation.
By George Bernard Shaw · First published 1903 · Genre: Philosophical, Religious, Social Critique · 322 words
First lines
Thus, even when the poor decide that the method of purchasing salvation by offering rams and goats or bringing gold to the altar must be wrong because they cannot afford it, we still do not feel "saved" without a sacrifice and a victim. In vain do we try to substitute mystical rites that cost nothing, such as circumcision, or, as a substitute for that, baptism. Our sense of justice still demands an expiation, a sacrifice, a sufferer for our sins. And this leaves the poor man still in his old difficulty; for if it was impossible for him to procure rams and goats and shekels, how much more impossible is it for him to find a neighbor who will voluntarily suffer for his sins: one who will say cheerfully "You have committed a murder. Well, never mind: I am willing to be hanged for it in your stead?"
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Genres
- Philosophical — The text explores deep questions about salvation, justice, and the human need for atonement, which are central themes in philosophical discourse.
- Religious — The discussion of salvation, sacrifice, and atonement is heavily rooted in religious concepts and critiques traditional religious practices.
- Social Critique — The work critiques societal structures that privilege the wealthy in matters of spiritual salvation, highlighting class disparities.
- Satire — The text uses irony and exaggeration to critique religious and social systems, a hallmark of satirical writing.
Tags
salvation · class privilege · remedy · social justice · inequality · religion · philosophy · critique · human rights · morality · ethics · socioeconomic
What this Textopian page supports
Salvation at First a Class Privilege; and the Remedy is listed on Textopian as an essay by George Bernard Shaw, dated 1903 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: George Bernard Shaw
- Date: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical, Religious, Social Critique, Satire, Essay
- Length: 322 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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